"Earth without Art is just Eh." - Unknown
I recently discovered a really unique place near me called Grounds for Sculpture. It's a 42-acre sculpture park and museum located in Hamilton, NJ, which is near Trenton. Grounds for Sculpture features a collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures.
If you go, wear comfy shoes and plan to spend a few hours wandering around the beautifully landscaped, wooded grounds. They give you a map when you get there but we just meandered around. Besides, I'm told the sculptures are moved often and the maps aren't usually updated so they mostly just help you figure out where you are and don't give much info on the art.
There are so many random paths you can take and art is hidden all over the place! Take your time and wander around to be sure you don't miss anything! I couldn't believe how many beautiful statues and sculptures there was to see. Some of them are even giant, lifesize recreations of actual famous paintings. It's as if you've stepped right into the artists world! Some sculptures were a little odd for my taste but most were beautiful. Even if they weren't my taste, I can totally appreciate all the hard work and creativity that went into to making them. That's the beauty of art, there is something for everyone.
If you work up an appetite after all the walking, there are couple options onsite. Vangogh's Cafe has premade sandwiches, salads, snacks and drinks if you want a quick bite. Rat's is a full service, sit down restaurant. It's pretty large inside and has a beautiful patio for outside dining that overlooks a recreation of Monet's garden and bridge he painted often. The food is really good too. They get pretty busy so reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome too. Another option is to bring your own food. I saw plenty of people pinicing as well.
All in all, my hubby and I had a great time. I have never been anywhere quite like it. It is definitely a family friendly spot, but would also make a great date idea too. It's fairly inexpensive with admission at $16 for adults and $10 for kids. You'll want to visit in warmer months or the fall, as the majority of the experience is outside and I'm thinking it would be too cold in the winter. They also have little trams that drop you off at different locations around the park if you have trouble walking too much. Free docent tours are available if you want an insiders tour of the grounds. Since the sculptures are rotated annually, I look forward to going back again and having a whole new experience. If you live nearby, or are planing to travel to the Hamilton/Trenton, New Jersey area, you'll want to put this on your list of places to visit!
